CVE-2022-46363 in CXF
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2022
A vulnerability in Apache CXF before versions 3.5.5 and 3.4.10 allows an attacker to perform a remote directory listing or code exfiltration. The vulnerability only applies when the CXFServlet is configured with both the static-resources-list and redirect-query-check attributes. These attributes are not supposed to be used together, and so the vulnerability can only arise if the CXF service is misconfigured.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/22/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-46363 represents a critical security flaw in Apache CXF versions prior to 3.5.5 and 3.4.10 that enables remote attackers to perform unauthorized directory listing operations and potentially exfiltrate code from the affected system. This vulnerability specifically targets the CXFServlet component within the Apache CXF framework, which serves as a core element for building and running web services. The flaw arises from an improper configuration handling mechanism where the system fails to properly validate the combination of two specific attributes that should never be used simultaneously. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear violation of secure configuration practices and highlights the importance of proper input validation and attribute management within web service frameworks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the improper handling of the static-resources-list and redirect-query-check attributes within the CXFServlet configuration. When these attributes are incorrectly combined, the system fails to perform adequate validation checks that would normally prevent such a dangerous configuration combination. This misconfiguration creates a pathway for attackers to exploit the web service framework and gain unauthorized access to directory structures and potentially sensitive code artifacts. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and leverages the inherent functionality of the CXF framework to perform directory traversal operations that should be restricted by default. According to CWE-284, this represents an improper access control vulnerability where the system fails to properly restrict access to sensitive resources, while the misconfiguration aspect aligns with CWE-255 which addresses issues related to insecure configuration management.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-46363 extends beyond simple information disclosure to potentially enable more severe attack vectors including code exfiltration and directory traversal attacks. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to enumerate the file system structure of the affected server, potentially discovering sensitive files, configuration data, or source code that could be used for further exploitation. The ability to perform remote directory listing operations provides attackers with valuable reconnaissance information that could facilitate subsequent attacks such as privilege escalation, data theft, or service disruption. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations running Apache CXF web services that have not properly configured their servlet attributes, creating a window of opportunity for attackers to exploit the misconfiguration and gain unauthorized access to the underlying system resources. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it requires only a specific misconfiguration to be exploitable, making it a significant concern for organizations with complex web service deployments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations by upgrading to Apache CXF versions 3.5.5 or 3.4.10 where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper validation of attribute combinations. The recommended approach involves reviewing all CXFServlet configurations to ensure that the static-resources-list and redirect-query-check attributes are not used simultaneously, as this combination creates the exploitable condition. System administrators should conduct comprehensive audits of their web service configurations to identify and correct any instances where these attributes have been improperly combined. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and network segmentation can help limit the potential impact of exploitation attempts. The mitigation strategy should also include monitoring for suspicious directory traversal activities and implementing proper logging mechanisms to detect unauthorized access attempts. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1083 (File and Directory Discovery) and T1566 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers could use the directory listing capabilities to identify valuable targets for further attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems to help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability.